Hicksville veteran awarded Purple Heart posthumously
William Olitsky's family was present to receive his Purple Heart, awarded posthumously by Congressman Tom Suozzi, along with other lost medals, for his heroic actions at Iwo Jima.
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The family of a Hicksville veteran has been awarded a Purple Heart this Memorial Day for their loved one's bravery during World War II.
The rain held off just long enough for community members and family to gather in Sea Cliff to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
William Olitsky's family was present to receive his Purple Heart, awarded posthumously by Congressman Tom Suozzi, along with other lost medals, for his heroic actions at Iwo Jima.
Olitsky was wounded in battle but managed to rescue members of his unit. His grandson, Douglas Olitsky, discovered this heroic story while researching for a family reunion.
"Once that story is gone, it's gone. So just archiving it for people is important, and it's a worthy endeavor," says Olitsky.
Other attendees emphasized the importance of recognizing these heroes not just on Memorial Day but throughout the year.
